Section 508 requires federal agencies to make their electronic and
information technology (EIT) accessible to people with disabilities, unless
certain exceptions apply. EIT includes telecommunications products (such
as telephones), information kiosks and transaction machines, websites,
multimedia, and office equipment, such as copiers and fax machines, computers,
software, firmware and similar products and services. Specifically,
Section 508 requires federal agencies to ensure that EIT they develop, procure,
maintain, or use allows employees with disabilities and members of the public
seeking information or services to have access to and use of information and
data that is comparable to that available to people who do not have
disabilities. Section 508 also requires the attorney general to report and
offer recommendations periodically to the President and Congress on the state
of federal agency compliance with Section 508.

In 2010-2011, the Department created survey instruments and solicited
answers from federal agencies about their implementation of Section 508. The
survey requested data in four important areas: procurement, general
processes for implementing Section 508, administrative complaints and civil
actions, and website compliance.